HP Envy 6455e stuck in FIRMWARE UPDATE mode. Firmware update app doesn't see it.

[DeclanMurphy201]

1. My Printer's Identification & Warranty:

• My specific printer is an HP ENVY 6455e (or 6400 series).
• (edited)
• When I checked the HP website, it shows this printer is Active and Covered under a Care Pack warranty until February 24, 2026.
• I want to be transparent: I acquired this printer from Goodwill. I understand warranties are typically non-transferable, but the system shows active coverage, so I'd like to inquire about its eligibility for service.

2. The Problem:

• My computer detects the printer as a 'WinUSB Firmware Update Device' when connected via USB. It does not install as a normal printer.
• The printer itself is showing unusual and complex light patterns:
  • There's a glowing 'purple motion light arrangement' on the front output tray area.
  • The top control panel lights are also displaying errors, with the red 'X' and an amber/orange light illuminated, along with other very bright lights.
  • 
• It is unable to function normally (print, copy, scan).

3. Troubleshooting Steps I've Already Taken:

• I have performed multiple aggressive hard resets using the physical on/off switch on the back of the printer:
  • Printer on, unplug USB, hold rear power switch for 30 seconds, unplug from wall, release switch, wait 5 minutes, plug back into wall, press rear switch to turn on.
• I have tried to run the official HP Firmware Update Utility downloaded directly from HP's support website (for the ENVY 6455e, regulatory model SNPRC-1807-02).
  • Despite the printer being connected via USB and being detected as a 'WinUSB Firmware Update Device,' the firmware update utility DOES NOT detect my printer in its list of available devices.
• I've tried using the HP Smart app on various devices, but it was crashing, and even when it worked, it cannot connect the printer to Wi-Fi due to the underlying firmware issue.
• The printer does broadcast a Wi-Fi Direct network (HP-Setup<1D*ENVY 6400 series), and the blue Wi-Fi light on the control panel can blink (indicating it enters Wi-Fi setup mode), but the core 'WinUSB Firmware Update Device' status and error lights persist.
•  

[Garp_senchau]

@DeclanMurphy201, Welcome to HP Support Community,

Thank you for posting your query; I’m here to help by guiding you through steps to resolve this issue

Since your HP ENVY 6455e printer is showing as “Active and Covered” until February 24, 2026, it is still under warranty.

You can contact HP’s phone support directly for help with this issue.

Troubleshooting Steps

You've already performed several troubleshooting steps. Here are some additional suggestions:

Run HP Smart:

• Download and run the HP Smart. Follow the prompts to diagnose and fix common printing issues.
• Refer: Use Diagnose & Fix in HP Smart to repair common printing issues (Windows, macOS) | HP® Support

Update Printer Firmware (Update the firmware on an HP printer | HP® Support)

• Go to the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads page. Enter your printer model number and search for the latest firmware update. Follow the instructions to download and install the firmware update.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

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Regards,